Manhattan Community Boathouse is a nonprofit organization that provides free kayakingin New York City.

All participants must sign a liability waiver and know how to swim. All participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can sign their waiver. Paddlers under the age of 16 must also share a boat with an adult.

Classes

Each summer we teach free classes in paddling skills and safety techniques. These classes been developed with beginners in mind, but are appropriate for kayakers of all skill levels. Each session includes instruction on the pier followed by practice time on the water. Classes are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. We cannot accept reservations or pre-registration.

Forward Stroke:Paddling Efficiently and Improving Your FormOffered at 6:00PM on June 10th, July 8th & August 12th

Turns:Techniques for Maneuvering Your KayakOffered at 6:00PM on June 17th, July 15th & August 19th

Rescues: A Step-by-Step Guide for Recovery After a CapsizeOffered at 6:00PM on June 24th, July 22nd & August 26th

Walk-Up Kayaking

We offer free kayaking on first-come, first-served basis. We cannot accept reservations and there is no pre-registration required.

Paddling with us is suitable for people of all ages and athletic abilities, and we ask everyone to limit their time on the water to 20 minutes if there are others waiting for a turn.

You will get wet in our boats, so be sure to dress accordingly. We have lockers for any items you would like to keep dry, and changing rooms at Pier 96.

Hours of Operation

Please allow time for waiting in line when planning your visit. We cannot guarantee that you will have a chance to kayak if you arrive less than an hour before we close. We launch the last boat of the day 15 minutes before the program closes for the evening.

72nd Street

Volunteering is Easy and Fun!

If you’d like to help run our free kayaking program just fill out the form below and join us at our next orientation session!

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Thank you!

Make a Donation

One hundred percent of your donation will be used to fund our free kayaking program and all donations are tax-deductible.

If you would like to donate a kayak, paddle, life jacket or other equipment, please email us.

Become a Member

Manhattan Community Boathouse holds triennial elections to determine our Board of Directors and all current members with at least two consecutive years of membership are eligible to participate. You can become a member for the calendar year by making a donation of $20 or more. Membership is completely optional and is not a requirement to kayak or volunteer with us.